Chasmogamous flowers are those that have their petals open and the reproductive organs exposed. The name comes from the Greek words for “open marriage”.

These flowers are typically showy and brightly colored in order to attract pollinators. These flowers undergo cross-pollination, meaning that the pollen is transferred from the male organ (stamen) to the female organ (pistil) of another flower.

This process allows for genetic variation and helps to ensure that the species survives. Chasmogamous flowers can be found in a variety of plant families, including orchids, lilies, and irises.

It is important to note that not all flowers are chasmogamous. Some flowers, such as the lily of the valley, have their petals closed and the reproductive organs are hidden.

These flowers are known as cleistogamous flowers and undergo self-pollination.

What are cleistogamous flowers?

Cleistogamous flowers are those that have their petals closed and the reproductive organs hidden. The name comes from the Greek words for “closed marriage”.

These flowers typically do not have showy petals and are not as brightly colored as chasmogamous flowers.

These flowers undergo self-pollination, meaning that the pollen is transferred from the male organ (stamen) to the female organ (pistil) of the same flower.

They do not need pollinators to reproduce and are typically found in plants that grow in shady areas. Cleistogamous flowers can be found in a variety of plant families, including peas and beans.

Can cross-pollination occur in cleistogamous flowers?

No, cross-pollination cannot occur in cleistogamous flowers. The petals are closed and the reproductive organs are hidden, so there is no way for the pollen to be transferred from one flower to another.

And so, cleistogamous flowers are limited to self-pollination.

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